Being Bear Aware: Tips to Reduce Attractants

Bear activity is increasing with the warmer weather, and we all play a role in keeping both bears and people safe. Bears are naturally curious and will explore easy food sources from waste bins and even unlocked vehicles. By following a few simple tips, we can help prevent bears from becoming food-conditioned.

Here’s how you can help:

• Put carts out the morning of collection, not the night before.
• Store carts securely in a garage or a sturdy shed between your collection days.
• Keep your bins clean to minimize smells that attract bears.
• Freeze food scraps (especially meat, bones, and fish) until collection day.
• Keep doors on homes and vehicles locked.

Remember, no bin is truly bear-proof. The longer a bear interacts with your bin, the more likely it is to get in. Removing attractants is the best way to prevent future encounters.

To report human-wildlife interactions where safety may be at risk, call the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.

For more tips or to report wildlife sightings, visit anmore.com/living-with-wildlife